Abusers of painkillers at risk of infertility, Gynaecologist warns

The Nigerians that usually abuse painkillers called Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), also known as painkillers have been warned that they stand a risk of infertility.

Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Abosede Lewu, on Monday warned young women against the abuse or consistent use of the drug.

In a chat with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Awka, Lweu revealed that the consistent use of NSAIDs had negative effects on women’s menstrual cycle and ovulation.

The convener of the Keep All Mothers Alive (KAMA) Project described NSAIDs or painkillers, as members of a drug class that reduces pain, decreases fever, prevents blood clots and in higher doses, decreases inflammation.

“Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) have also been implicated in infertility. The consistent use or abuse of these drugs prevent ovulation and lower progesterone levels in young women.

“It prevents follicle from breaking to release egg, and when egg is not released, there is nothing to fertilise by the sperm.

“Painkillers work mostly by blocking a particular pathway. This pathway is needed to achieve ovulation if blocked, a ripe follicle may not ovulate leading to Luteinised Unruptured Follicle (LUF) or other mild dysfunction,’’ she said.

“For those using painkillers for few days for menstrual pain, you have already ovulated before the period, so except your cycle is very short. NSAIDs should not affect your menses, ovulation and fertility.

“For those using NSAIDs consistently for other medical conditions, they are more at risk treating underlying cause. They need to find an alternative drug or therapy.

“There are other groups of analgesics that can be used in place of NSAIDs. If NSAID are to be used, it should be prescribed, timed and restricted. So, stop NSAIDs abuse,” she warned.

The gynaecologist also urged women to visit a doctor when they experienced ovulation or menstrual disorders and fertility issues, saying that there are other causes aside painkillers.

“Pls note, if you have ovulation or menstrual disorders and fertility issues, you cannot assume it is only NSAIDs, consult a specialist,’’ she advised.

(NAN)